It is with great pleasure and enthusiasm that I join the Sumac Family for the 2015-2016 school year. Excited and humbled, I am honored to join a staff of dedicated and compassionate educators that are committed to our L-STEM program. I have been fortunate to be part of the Las Virgenes Unified School District for the past fifteen years. Thirteen years were spent at Chaparral Elementary as an upper elementary teacher and Teacher in Charge. The last two years I was part of the district's dynamic technology department as a Media Specialist. As a media specialist I focused on the implementation of technology, rolled out our current universal screening tool, lead the adoption of new math curriculum, and facilitated trainings for the Forward Learning program. These opportunities have afforded me a wide breadth of experience and perspectives that will be essential as I embark on this new role as principal and lead learner.

As we quickly approach August, we are busy with various projects on our ever evolving campus. Richard, Mike and Ava, our hard-working maintenance crew, are tirelessly tackling their summer projects with gusto. While our physical site is getting extra love and attention, I have also had the opportunity to hire three amazing teachers for grades 1, 3, and 4. Last but not least, I have been meeting with staff members and parents alike to start planning our schedule for the upcoming school year.

Sumac is an amazing place to grow and learn! I look forward to supporting the growth of our expanding dual language program as we welcome 4th grade to the program. Our STEM program will continue evolving as we plan engaging hands-on curriculum that opens students' eyes and minds toward math, science, engineering, and technology.

Our doors open August 5th (classes start August 19) , so please savor the rest of your summer! Relax and enjoy your time with family and friends, because next year promises to be filled with a unique and unforgettable learning adventure for our entire community... staff, students, parents, and friends alike!